The New York Knicks have not ruled out Jason Kidd as a candidate in their ongoing coaching search, despite Dallas’ prior refusal to grant an interview.
According to Alex Smith and Ian Begley of SportsNet New York, “The door is not completely closed on the Knicks and Jason Kidd, per people familiar with the dynamic in Dallas.”
Kidd, who led the Mavericks to the Western Conference Play-In Tournament, is still viewed as a viable option if his situation in Dallas changes.
Just last week, The Athletic’s James L. Edwards III reported that the Knicks were revisiting both Kidd and Billy Donovan, contingent on their contract negotiations with their current teams.
Kidd’s status remains fluid, though Dallas had previously declined permission for the Knicks to engage with him. That stance may shift depending on internal developments within the Mavericks’ front office.
The Knicks are simultaneously exploring other candidates. New York is expected to interview former Memphis Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins.
Former Kings coach Mike Brown, who exited Sacramento following a 13–18 start this season, is also scheduled to meet with team executives.
Efforts to reach out to established coaches have largely stalled. Chicago and Atlanta blocked access to Donovan and Quin Snyder, respectively, further complicating New York’s search.
These setbacks have led the front office to consider candidates known for developing talent rather than only those with established resumes.
One such possibility is Johnny Bryant, currently an assistant in Cleveland. The Cavaliers finished the season with the best record in the Eastern Conference at 64–18.
The vacancy opened after the Knicks and Tom Thibodeau parted ways. Thibodeau had guided New York to back-to-back 50-win seasons and a third-place finish in the East this year.
